1,300 Bed Development Planned for Exeter

A huge student accommodation development will be decided this week by Exeter councillors.

The plans have already been recommended for approval by planning officers, which if given the go ahead will result in bed spaces for 1,300 students. Located at East Park, on the University of Exeter's Streatham Campus, the 400,000 sq ft development will have buildings up to eight storeys tall.

Despite planning officers recommending the plans for approval, objections from local resident's number around 300.

Concerns were raised over the height of the building, which they believe would have an overbearing effect on residents in Hoopern Avenue, Hillcrest, Higher Hoopern Avenue and Pennsylvania Road.

In addition, locals believe the number of students would represent the population density of a 'small village'.

Commenting on the plans city council planning officers said: "The proposal complies with the development plan policies, which conclude that the principle of the development of this site is appropriate.

"Whilst it is acknowledged that the use of the site is now for student accommodation rather than for academic buildings, as stated within the University Masterplan, it is considered that the area is suitable for this purpose."

Planning officers continued, suggesting: "Given the recent number of student accommodation schemes submitted in off campus locations, the proposal for such a significant number of bed spaces within a sustainable location on campus is to be welcomed."